2. amps-preamps
  3. 127962-11371

Recommend a SS amp for my new Vandersteen Quatro CT

I will be taking delivery of my new speakers in a few weeks and am curious about amp/preamp combinations that might work well.  My first auditions will be with the two power amps that I own.  I have an older ARC 100.2 that has been in storage for the past 4 years and a Bryston 4bsst2 that I am currently using with my SP Tech Mini monitors.  I have every reason to believe that either of my current amps will match up ok but wondering about better matches that would compliment the Quatro to a greater extent.
randyhat
randyhat OP
156 posts
 
I will send the 100.2 to ARC for a checkup.  I figure whether I use the amp or end up selling it I would like to have ARC giving it a good bill of health.  As much as I like that amp I will be surprised if wins out against the 4bsst2.  I know there are many Bryston detractors here but I find the sst2 to have a more refined character than the older Bryston amps.  The SST2 was absolutely better for my fairly low efficiency stand mount monitors.  The extra power and bass control made those speakers come alive.  With the Quatro it may be a closer call because I will be filtering out most of the frequencies that are the strength of the Bryston.  So I am anticipating it will be more of a midrange shootout.  Thank you all for your suggestions.  I have heard Ayre and Aesthetix mentioned before.  The dealer where I am buying carries neither brand and auditioned them for me on ARC Reference Pre and Power amps. 
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,736 posts
 
I did not mention Bryson because I have zero experience with them on Vandersteen's. I am NOT a detractor - I have a good friend with two pair of big B&W in well designed rooms running them - try it !!!!
Good call on service checkup of the 100.2 database says something like 1999 thru 2003 production so a refresh might be good.
again - excited for you !!!!

mgreen27
147 posts
 

"I have an ARC LS-15.  Along with the 100.2 it is a little long in the tooth but still a good performer."

Keep your 100.2 for now and get the best preamp you can afford. Its the most important piece to get right, and will make a bigger difference than a new amp. Get it out of the way now and save yourself a headache down the road.

randyhat OP
156 posts
 
"get the best preamp you can afford"

Interesting suggestion.  I certainly agree that the preamp can impact the sound as much if not more than the power amp...and ideally each should compliment the other.  My LS-15 was modified a few years ago by Great Northern Sound Company.  Although no longer in business, they were highly regarded for their ARC modifications.  The modifications plus the replacement of stock tubes combined to improve the sound of the LS-15 to a fairly significant extent.  All this to say, I am pretty sure I have a better preamp than the original LS-15 but I still wonder how much I may be missing compared to some of the new models.
mgreen27
147 posts
 
I didn't know your ARC was wasn't stock. Steve from GNSC now works for Resolution Audio. Maybe contact him and find out exactly what was done to it. He'll give you an honest assessment as to how good the preamp is with the mods added to it. 
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